What should I consider when buying a vehicle?

The number one question is "Do I really need a vehicle or a second vehicle?"

If you live within four kilometers of your regular destinations, consider alternate modes of transportation especially if it's a second vehicle you are considering. An alternative may be renting for those occasional or special trips. This would save the environment and may be a fraction of the cost of owing in the long run.

What size do you need?

Ask yourself how much space is needed on a regular basis for passengers, luggage, groceries, tools and sport equipment. If it is for commuting, a two-seater or compact may fit the bill. For a family of four, a mid-size sedan may make sense. For hauling small loads, perhaps a hatchback, small station wagon or small pickup truck is what you should consider instead of a minivan. Generally, the smaller and lighter vehicles will be more fuel-efficient.

New or used?

Newer vehicles tend to be more fuel-efficient than older models. This may offset the extra purchase price by reduced fuel costs. Check the EnerGuide label on new vehicles or check the manufactures' approved fuel consumption rating for a used vehicle.

What kind of transmission?

Generally, a manual transmission with overdrive is more fuel efficient than an automatic. A typical driver can save at least 100 litres of fuel per year. That said, you must also consider where you are driving and how confident you are at shifting. For city driving, an automatic transmission with extra gears may be more efficient than a manual when shifting is not done well.

What size of engine is needed?

All things being equal, the larger the engine and the more cylinders it has, the greater its fuel consumption. Choose the smallest engine that meets your needs. If you often need to tow or carry heavy loads, a bigger engine may be the most fuel-efficient.

Do you need 4-wheel drive?

Probably not. Four-wheel drive offers superior traction and braking under slippery conditions but the extra weight and friction can increase fuel consumption by 5-10% compared to two-wheel drive vehicles. All-wheel drive is least fuel-efficient as all four wheels are always drawing power from the engine. The most fuel efficient is front or rear wheel drive.

What about fuel type?

Explore your options.

  • Propane or natural gas produces less greenhouse gas emissions and are cheaper to use than gasoline or diesel fuels.
  • Ethanol fuel blends are widely available and are better for the environment
  • Diesel can be a fuel-efficient alternative
  • Hybrid electric vehicles are appearing and are worth considering. The extra cost may be offeset by the saving in fuel cost

And the extras!!

Most options increase fuel consumption by:

  • Adding weight
  • Increasing aerodynamic drag
  • Drawing extra power through the engine or alternator

Option Cost
Power window, mirrors and door locks Minor cost as they are operated only briefly.
Power and/or heated seats It is the added weight to the vehicle that is significant. Power seats can add 40 to 60kg to a 1200 kg vehicle, resulting in 2-3% lifetime fuel consumption penalty.
Sun roof Depends. Sunroofs add significant weight to the vehicle and when open on the highway, increase the drag. In the city, open windows or sunroofs can be a fuel saving alternative to air conditioning.
Air conditioning In city driving, on a hot day, fuel consumption can increase by more than 20%. Smaller engines are affected more.
Climate control systems As the air-conditioning compressor is on all the time, even in winter, it is estimated these systems can increase fuel consumption by about 5%.
Tinted glass Savings! Tinting reduces the need for air conditioning.
Block heater This is not an option in Saskatchewan!! By heating the engine to semi warm in the winter, it can improve overall winter fuel economy by as much as 10%.
Aluminium wheels Savings! These wheels reduce weight thereby improving fuel consumption.
Heavy-duty suspensions They improve handling, are strong and long lasting - a good trade off as they are relatively light.
Cruise control Savings! This is especially true for highway driving where it keeps the vehicle at a fuel-saving constant speed.
Roof rack Depends if it is removable or not. Loaded or empty, they increase fuel consumption by increasing aerodynamic drag.
Navigation systems Savings! Show you the most direct route from point A to point B.